INDIANAPOLIS — Not-so-frightful animals, pumpkins galore and a whimsical village to explore — the Indianapolis Zoo has conjured some fantastic new ways for families to celebrate Halloween during the reimagined ZooBoo presented by Central Indiana Honda Dealers.

Now beginning its 36th year, this beloved fall event includes four extra days for visitors to enjoy the spooktacular festivities. ZooBoo kicks off Oct. 5 and continues every Thursday through Sunday all month long. The Zoo opens daily at 9am, so guests are encouraged to come early to visit their favorite animals, then event activities go on from 2-7pm.

With the all-new experiences in Pumpkin Town presented by Macy’s, this year’s ZooBoo is bigger than ever before. Under the cover of the Bicentennial Pavilion awaits a magical town where little witches and goblins can discover fun all around. There’s nothing to fear from encounters with fascinating critters, including toads, turtles, rats and cats. In partnership with the Humane Society of Indianapolis, the cats will be available for adoption following ZooBoo.

Inside the Candy Corn Factory presented by Metro PCS, the mirror maze hides thrills and smiles around every corner. A friendly witch offers potions to transform special treats. Guests can also stop in at a crafty Pumpkin School, dance to Halloween music and try a few rolls of Pumpkin Bowling presented by Universal Windows Direct.

More Halloween fun is waiting elsewhere around the Zoo, too. Children can dash down Broomstick Alley presented by State Farm. Plus, the Zoo’s rides also feature a wild twist, like the Spooktacular Train Ride and the Round-Go-Merry — the carousel that moves in reverse.

Costumes are encouraged and kids can bring a reusable bag to collect a few goodies along the Trick-or-Treat Trail presented by Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St. Vincent, located in Plains. Allergy-friendly snacks are available upon request, and all Halloween treats are either palm-oil free, contain sustainable palm oil or are produced by a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, which is working to make orangutan-friendly palm oil readily available.

Even the Zoo’s animals get into the spirit of the season. Mild fall temperatures mean the animals will be out and active, providing the perfect backdrop for all the festivities. Plus, visitors can enjoy extra chats, Halloween-themed animal enrichment and special activities, like the messy fun of the Elephant Pumpkin Smash presented by Sam’s Club.

ZooBoo is free for Zoo members and included with regular admission. Discount tickets are available at area Donatos and Indiana Members Credit Union locations.